Neutrophil extracellular traps: New players in cancer research

Front Immunol. 2022 Aug 19:13:937565. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.937565. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

NETs are chromatin-derived webs extruded from neutrophils as a result of either infection or sterile stimulation using chemicals, cytokines, or microbes. In addition to the classical role that NETs play in innate immunity against infection and injuries, NETs have been implicated extensively in cancer progression, metastatic dissemination, and therapy resistance. The purpose of this review is to describe recent investigations into NETs and the roles they play in tumor biology and to explore their potential as therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.

Keywords: metastatic; neutrophil extracellular trap; therapy resistance; tumor microenvironment; tumor-associated neutrophils.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chromatin
  • Extracellular Traps*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Neoplasms*
  • Neutrophils

Substances

  • Chromatin